Psychiatric evaluation and treatment
A psychiatric evaluation is a health assessment that is performed by a psychiatric professional in order to determine whether an individual has a mental health disorder. A psychiatric treatment is a plan of care that is designed to address the individual’s mental health needs.
Mental health conditions that are commonly evaluated and treated by psychiatric professionals include mood disorders (such as depression or bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders (such as generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder), disorders of attention and focus (such as ADHD), or mental health conditions resulting from trauma (such as PTSD)..
During a psychiatric evaluation, the individual will be asked questions about their symptoms, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The psychiatric professional will also ask questions about the individual’s family history, medical history, and social history. The purpose of the evaluation is to gather information that will help to determine whether the individual has a mental health disorder and, if so, what the best course of treatment may be. An evaluation may also include blood work or other diagnostic testing to eliminate the possibility of an underlying medical condition.
The specific components of psychiatric treatment will vary depending on the type of mental health disorder that is being treated. In general, however, psychiatric treatment typically includes some combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes. Medication can be used to treat symptoms of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety or depression. Psychotherapy can help individuals to understand and work through their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Lifestyle changes (such as getting regular exercise or eating a healthy diet) can help to reduce symptoms of psychiatric disorders. As with many medications to treat certain medical illnesses, the potential side effects of some psychiatric medications require routine monitoring or through blood work or other diagnostic testing. In addition, we will monitor nutritional status, supplement intake and other health maintenance strategies, such as exercise routine and dedicated self-care.
